Tara Otterson RN, BSN

Tara Otterson, RN, BSN, Nursing Program Coordinator joined the Enteral Access Team at Children’s Mercy Kansas City in January 2023. She received her BSN from University of Missouri- Kansas City. Prior to her present position, Tara was a certified neonatal intensive care nurse for 12 years at the hospital’s Level IV NICU with special interest in surgical patients. As a practicing enteral access specialist responding to inpatient and outpatient consultations, Tara helps manage enteral access devices with a focus on gastrostomy tubes. This work collaborates providers in multiple disciplines including, Gastroenterology, Surgical Services, Wound Care, and Interventional Radiology. A few responsibilities include troubleshooting devices, developing plans of care for peristomal skin conditions, and providing dislodgement education to new G-tube and GJ-tube placements. In addition, the team holds educational sessions and develops materials for pediatric nursing staff, providers, and the region’s health community.